Short cruise from Hamburg to Southampton, chosen for the price and because it's a big ship. The drinks package came free with the Fantastica class of cabin and I think nearly everyone had a drinks package which meant that the waiters were over stretched. Lots of cocktails, beers and spirits on offer but very limited wine selection (2 red, 2 white and 1 rose), Drinks, when they did come, were nicely served by smiling waiters. Ship was clean and had the glitzy Italian styling - crystals, dark wood and marble-type surfaces. Beautiful. Cabin was roomy and the shower was bigger than other cruise lines with free shampoo and showergel (unlike RCL). Food in main restaurant was beautifully presented and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It's nice to be able clear a plate and not feel stuffed! Theatre shows were awesome and the mini opera was magical. A value cruise that punches above its weight. Embarkation in Hamburg was chaotic and long, disembarkation in Southampton was really quick.
Everything you need with Italian styling. Go for an inside cabin if you want to save money and enjoy the ambience and glitz of the ship's many public areas.
A brilliant short break destination from which to start / finish a cruise. Do book a night or two in the city to explore.
Compared to Hamburg and Le Harve, Southampton was very notable in it's lack of welcome committee from the tourist office. No help, no leaflets, dismal walk from quayside into town crossing very busy roads. I had a couple of hours to kill before my train home and thought to visit the SeaCity Museum and leave my luggage (cabin sized) behind the counter - this is not allowed. Thank goodness it was sunny.
Take time to discover this lovely town - we self guided to ST Joseph's Church, the Volcan, the botanical gardens and then beach. The tourist office ran a 4Euro shuttle which also included all buses and the tram system tickets. Great value!